Kerzner International has announced the appointment of Jean-Gabriel Pérès as its new president and chief executive officer.

As the outgoing chief executive of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, Pérès has overseen the daily operations of the 16,000-staff hotel management company for 17 years.

His role was instrumental in driving the global expansion of the company into Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

“Jean-Gabriel joins us at a very opportune moment in our journey as we embark on an accelerated growth and expansion plan to take Kerzner to new places around the world, from China to Mexico and beyond,” said Mohammed Al Shaibani, executive director of Investment Corporation of Dubai, and chairman of Kerzner International.

Pérès possesses an international work experience that spans more than 30 years in the upscale hospitality and luxury retail industries, with deep knowledge of the Middle East and Asia.

Prior to joining Mövenpick, he spent 11 years with Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, following his tenure with engineering firm Matra/Lagardere Group, now known as EADS, where he led strategic partnerships in the United States and the Middle East.

“Throughout his career, Jean-Gabriel has carved his expertise in building exemplary corporate cultures, achieving customer satisfaction, and driving superior returns for the companies he worked at,” Al Shaibani added.

“I look forward to seeing KIH prosper and grow its global footprint under his stewardship.”

Pérès official start date with Kerzner will be announced in due course.

He will be replaced at Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts by Olivier Chavy.